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Bangladesh Press Freedom Under Attack After Journalist Assault

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/08 .. eedom-under-attack-after-journalist-assault.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 17:20 GMT by The Daily Star
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The Daily Star

February 8, 2026

The assault on journalist Rehan Tausif, reported earlier this week, is not an isolated incident, but the latest and most alarming symptom of a systemic erosion of press freedom in Bangladesh. This attack, occurring so closely after Mr. Tausif published his investigative report detailing alleged corruption within several key government ministries, serves as a chilling reminder of the risks faced by those dedicated to uncovering truth and holding power accountable.

While the government has issued a statement condemning the violence, condemnation rings hollow without substantive action. Mr. Tausif remains hospitalized with serious injuries, and initial police reports, while acknowledging the attack, lack any concrete leads or a commitment to a rigorous investigation. This pattern - of swift condemnation followed by stalled investigations and a lack of justice - has become tragically common in Bangladesh over the last five years.

Press freedom is not simply a principle espoused by international organizations; it is the lifeblood of a functioning democracy. A free press enables informed citizenry, fosters transparency, and acts as a crucial check on governmental overreach. When journalists are subjected to intimidation, harassment, and violence, the public's right to know is fundamentally undermined. This isn't merely about protecting the profession of journalism, but about safeguarding the very foundations of a democratic society.

The situation has been steadily deteriorating. According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Bangladesh's ranking in the World Press Freedom Index has fallen dramatically in recent years, currently sitting at 168 out of 180 countries. While the government consistently disputes these rankings, citing domestic laws designed to combat "false news" and "extremist content", critics argue these laws are routinely used to stifle dissent and target independent voices. These laws, like the controversial Digital Security Act (DSA) - despite recent amendments - continue to provide broad discretionary powers to law enforcement, enabling them to arrest and detain journalists on vaguely defined charges.

Beyond legal restrictions, journalists are increasingly facing physical threats. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has documented a surge in attacks, including physical assaults, online harassment campaigns, and arbitrary arrests. Many journalists report receiving anonymous death threats, forcing them to self-censor or abandon their work altogether. The climate of fear extends to editors and publishers, who are hesitant to publish sensitive reports for fear of reprisal.

The attack on Mr. Tausif is particularly concerning because it appears to be a direct response to his reporting. He was investigating allegations of embezzlement and misuse of public funds, a story that implicated several high-ranking officials. Sources within the Daily Star have indicated that Mr. Tausif had received prior warnings to abandon the investigation, warnings he bravely ignored. This suggests a deliberate attempt to silence him and send a message to other journalists.

The international community must exert greater pressure on the Bangladeshi government to address this escalating crisis. This includes advocating for the repeal of repressive laws, demanding thorough and impartial investigations into attacks on journalists, and providing support to independent media organizations. However, lasting change must come from within Bangladesh. Civil society organizations, human rights activists, and responsible elements within the government must come together to defend press freedom and protect the rights of journalists.

The Daily Star calls on the government to immediately:

• Launch a swift, transparent, and independent investigation into the attack on Rehan Tausif, ensuring that all those responsible are brought to justice.
• Review and amend existing laws, including the DSA, to ensure they are in line with international standards for freedom of expression.
• Provide greater protection to journalists, including improved security measures and access to legal assistance.
• Foster a climate of tolerance and respect for independent journalism.

The future of independent journalism in Bangladesh, and the health of its democracy, hangs in the balance. Ignoring this crisis will only further erode public trust, undermine democratic institutions, and embolden those who seek to operate in the shadows.